Last Call: Apply Now to Become a Kids' Life Jacket Loaner Site

Deadline to Apply is March 11th

Photo Caption: The BoatUS Foundation loans out kidsí life jackets at no cost at over 500 locations across the country.Download hi-res photo.

ANNAPOLIS, Md., March 1, 2011 -- This summer you can help ensure kids stay safe on the water, but you need to act soon. The BoatUS Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program for kids, which helps parents, boaters and anglers get the right-sized life jacket for youngsters at over 500 locations across the country, is looking for sponsors for additional loaner sites. But you only have until March 11 to apply at www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/LJLP.

"Children’s growth spurts and last minute changes to the roster of invited guests can conspire against you,” said Program Manager Alanna Keating. “But our free program, which on average loans out over 90,000 kids’ life jackets each year for the day or weekend, makes it easy.” Since the program began in 1997, at least three children’s lives have been saved.

There is no cost to host a loaner site and each location that is accepted into the program will receive a life jacket loaner “kit” – a protective container that holds various sized life jackets for kids up to 90 pounds, signage, promotional materials and easy-to-use sign-out sheets to track usage.

All BoatUS asks for in return is for loaner sites to post signage, keep the life jackets in a readily accessible but secure location, and periodically let BoatUS know how the program is going.

To apply to become a Life Jacket Loaner Program site, or for more information on the program or the life jacket laws in your state, please visit www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/LJLP.

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About the BoatUS Foundation:

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by the half-million members of BoatUS, it provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America's waterways and keeping boating safe for all. To make a tax-deductible donation to this 501(c)(3) nonprofit, go to www.BoatUS.com/foundation.